Grants & Strategic Projects Specialist

The Grants and Strategic Projects Specialist will identify, define, and develop funding sources to support existing and planned program activities as well as lead the development, writing, and submission of grant proposals to federal, state, and private funding agencies. This position reports directly to the Executive Director.

Required Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree

· 3 to 5 years of experience as a successful grant writer, preferably with a social service, healthcare or criminal justice focus

· Experience should demonstrate a proven history of securing new funding opportunities; comprehensive knowledge of research, and the ability to distinguish and identify opportunities for FO generally and programs specifically

· Project management experience

· Ability to work effectively under pressure

· Excellent writing and verbal skills

· Be highly organized with the ability to implement systems and follow-up processes

· Proficiency in research, interpreting, and analyzing diverse data

· Excellent Computer skills (Microsoft Office Word, Access, PowerPoint, and Excel), and database management skills

· Motivated self-starter with the ability to work collaboratively and independently with purpose and accuracy in a fast-paced environment

Desired Qualifications:

· Master’s degree

· Previous grant budget development and management

· A proven record of securing major grants with certifiable references

· Knowledge of grant application process, scoring criteria and funding cycles

· Previous federal grant application, submission, approval, and management of funds

Key Responsibilities:

Grant Research & Funding Development

- Research and identify government, corporate, foundation, and private funding opportunities aligned with FO’s priorities.

- Stay informed of emerging funding trends, regulations, and opportunities.

- Maintain a pipeline of prospective funding sources to support organizational sustainability.

Grant Writing & Submission

- Develop high-quality grant proposals, narratives, applications, and supporting documentation.

- Ensure all submissions are compliant with FO policies and funder requirements.

- Generate revenue through timely, accurate, and compelling grant submissions.

- Collaborate with program staff to gather content and support materials.

Grant Management & Tracking

- Maintain grant calendars, deadlines, and tracking systems.

- Coordinate and follow up on the status of submitted applications.

- Maintain organized records of pending, awarded, and declined grants and contracts.

- Monitor and update the Grants Manual to reflect current best practices and compliance requirements.

Budget Development & Financial Coordination

- Partner with the Finance Director to develop proposal budgets, including projected expenditure and revenue.

- Ensure budget alignment with program needs and funder requirements.

- Provide guidance to staff regarding allowable expenses under specific grants.

Data Analysis & Reporting

- Collect, analyze, and report on program performance related to grant-funded activities.

- Support data-driven decision-making for program and funding strategies.

- Assist in preparing reports required by funders and leadership.

Strategic Projects & Organizational Support

- Collaborate with leadership and program teams to identify and support strategic initiatives.

- Participate in planning efforts to align funding opportunities with organizational goals.

- Meet regularly with staff to assess current and emerging funding needs.

Compliance & Communication

- Ensure adherence to FO and State of California policies related to grant management.

- Keep the Executive Director informed of grant progress, risks, and issues.

- Maintain confidentiality of sensitive organizational and client information